Fruit Category Manager

We are seeking an experienced, commercial Category Manager for Fruit. Requires a strong background in fresh fruit procurement, category management, and/or international fruit trading. The successful candidate will have proven expertise in sourcing, supply chain management, supplier negotiations, and driving profitability within the fresh produce industry.

Essential Experience:

• 5–8+ years' experience in Category Management, Procurement, Commercial Management, or International Trading within fresh fruit or fresh produce.

• Strong understanding of international fruit sourcing, import/export processes, and perishable supply chains.

• Experience negotiating with local and international growers, exporters, and suppliers.

• Proven ability to manage seasonal procurement, pricing strategies, and inventory planning.

• Strong commercial acumen with responsibility for P&L, margins, and category performance.

• Experience managing supplier claims, quality issues, and product recoveries.

• Ability to analyze market trends, pricing, and competitor activity to drive business growth.

• Experience leading or supporting regional sales teams across multiple countries would be advantageous.

Technical Knowledge:

• Fresh fruit supply chains and cold chain logistics.

• Import/export documentation and regulatory requirements.

• Procurement and inventory management systems.

• Pricing, forecasting, and demand planning.

• Quality assurance and claims management.

Key Competencies:

• Commercially driven with strong negotiation skills.

• Excellent analytical and financial acumen.

• Strong leadership and stakeholder management abilities.

• Ability to build long-term supplier relationships.

• Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail.

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, international trading environment.

• People management

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Agriculture, or a related field.

• 5– 8years of experience in category management, procurement, sales management, or a similar role (preferably in fresh produce).

•Experience managing cross-regional teams is advantageous.

• Knowledge of import/export regulations and perishable goods handling.

This role is best suited to someone who has hands-on experience trading fresh fruit internationally, understands the commercial risks associated with perishable products, and can balance supplier relationships, procurement, sales performance, quality, and profitability across multiple regions.